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Fit Tip: Fall in Love with your Personal Trainer

You’ve decided to seriously invest in your health and hire a personal trainer. It’s a great idea to have a dedicated fitness expert in your corner that can give you advice, keep you honest and produce results. Picking a trainer that can help you overcome your physical and emotional obstacles isn’t always easy. Be smart about your investment and take the time to choose your trainer wisely with these tips:

Do the research. Don’t settle for the first trainer you see when walking through the gym door. Chemistry, education and skill set is important. The trainer you choose should meet your needs in motivational style, training techniques and price. Referrals can be a good assessment of a trainer and always make sure they are certified by an National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA) accredited organization.

Make it a two way street. Like any relationship, communication is important so let him or her know your goals and discuss your weaknesses and strengths. Give your trainer the opportunity to push you and test the limits without pushing you over the edge. Be willing to work hard and follow their advice, but also be open about your lifestyle and schedule so he or she can make realistic recommendations.

Schedule a review. After the first month, take time to evaluate your progress. Are you happy with the environment? Do you find the trainer’s advice and expertise helpful? Are you dreading every session or do you come ready to take the challenges ahead? Do you feel comfortable asking your trainer questions about your body and health? Truthfully answer these questions and discuss issues with your trainer before continuing the program.

Take a look in the mirror. A trainer is there to motivate and teach, but you have to do the work. Sometimes lack of results or motivation can be due to internal issue that need sorting. Like all good relationships, if you carry too much baggage, it will be hard to sustain. Take a look inside for things holding you back from success before giving up on a trainer.